Account Executive - Design & Trade

About Iwan Maktabi

Iwan Maktabi is the Middle East's leading luxury carpet and rug house, with a heritage spanning nearly a century. Founded in 1926, we have become synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship, combining traditional artisanal techniques with contemporary design vision. Our bespoke creations and curated collections grace the world's most distinguished interiors, from private residences to landmark hospitality projects.

With showrooms in Beirut and Dubai, with presence across the GCC Dubai flagship on Jumeirah Beach Road serving as a cultural hub for the regional design community, we are at the forefront of luxury interior design in the region.

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic and design-savvy Account Executive to cultivate and grow our community of interior designers, architects, and design professionals across Dubai and the wider UAE. This role sits at the intersection of sales, relationship management, and design consultancy requiring someone who can generate new business, build lasting partnerships, and guide clients through bespoke, one-of-a-kind projects.

You will be the face of Iwan Maktabi within Dubai's thriving design community, responsible for identifying opportunities across major residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. Your role is to serve as a trusted partner to the region's leading design firms supporting them in selecting the perfect pieces and managing custom projects from concept to completion.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Generation & Business Development

Proactively generate leads by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities with interior designers, architects, developers, and high-net-worth private clients

Research and monitor major ongoing and upcoming projects in Dubai including developments in Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, DIFC, Emaar Beachfront, and emerging districts

Actively network within the design community to uncover opportunities and build a robust pipeline of trade accounts

Attend design exhibitions, trade shows, gallery openings, and industry events to generate new leads and raise brand awareness

Meet and exceed quarterly and annual sales targets while maintaining healthy margins aligned with brand positioning

Relationship Building & Client Retention

Build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with interior designers, architects, and specifiers becoming their trusted partner for all carpet and rug needs

Serve as the primary point of contact for trade clients, ensuring consistent communication and a deep understanding of their design philosophy and preferences

Nurture existing accounts through regular engagement, showroom visits, personalised outreach, and thoughtful follow-ups

Collaborate with the marketing team to host exclusive designer events, collection previews, and creative exchanges at the Dubai flagship

Act as an ambassador for Iwan Maktabi, fostering goodwill and brand loyalty within the regional design community

Client Support & Product Selection

Support clients in selecting the right carpets and rugs by understanding their design vision, spatial requirements, colour palettes, and lifestyle needs

Provide expert guidance on materials, weaving techniques, patterns, and finishes to ensure selections align with project aesthetics and functionality

Curate product presentations and showroom experiences tailored to each client's specific project requirements

Develop deep expertise in Iwan Maktabi's collections including antique pieces, contemporary designs, and bespoke capabilities through Iwan Maktabi LAB

Communicate the heritage, craftsmanship, sustainability ethos, and artistic value of each piece to enhance client appreciation

Custom & Bespoke Project Management

Manage custom, unique, and bespoke projects from initial concept through design development, production, and final installation

Work closely with clients to translate their vision into custom designs coordinating with Iwan Maktabi LAB on innovative materials, unconventional techniques, and one-of-a-kind creations

Prepare detailed proposals, quotations, specifications, and timelines with meticulous attention to accuracy and presentation

Coordinate seamlessly with internal teams (design, production, logistics) to ensure flawless execution and on-time delivery

Manage multiple concurrent projects across varying scales from single residential pieces to large-scale hospitality specifications with exceptional organisational skills

Handle client concerns with professionalism, urgency, and creative problem-solving, ensuring the highest level of satisfaction

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Business, Marketing, or a related field

Minimum 35 years of experience in sales, account management, or business development within the luxury interiors, furniture, or design industry

Proven track record of generating leads, building lasting relationships, and closing sales with interior designers, architects, and trade clients

Strong understanding of Dubai's design landscape, key players, and major ongoing and upcoming development projects

Demonstrated aesthetic sensibility and genuine passion for interior design, art, textiles, and craftsmanship

Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills comfortable engaging with high-profile clients and creative professionals

Highly organised with excellent project management capabilities, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities

Proficiency in CRM systems, Microsoft Office, and comfort with technology

Fluency in English required; Arabic is a strong advantage

Valid UAE driving licence and willingness to travel within the region

What We Offer

The opportunity to represent a globally respected heritage brand at the forefront of luxury design

A creative, collaborative work environment within a beautiful flagship showroom on Jumeirah Beach Road

Access to world-class collections, designer collaborations, and cultural events

Competitive salary with performance-based incentives

Professional development and growth opportunities within an expanding regional presence

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV and an optional brief cover letter outlining their experience and passion for design to [Confidential Information].

Iwan Maktabi is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.